Wisconsin · Step-by-step guide

How to sign a compliant Wisconsin lease.

A practical walkthrough of the six things a Wisconsin landlord must get right, in order, before and after signing.

Start My Wisconsin Lease →

1. Confirm the deposit cap

No statutory cap. Statutory cite: Wis. Stat. § 704.28.

2. Set late-fee terms correctly

Must be in lease

3. Plan entry notice

Give at least 12 hours' notice before entering the unit outside an emergency.

4. Give correct termination notice

28 days (month-to-month) for a month-to-month tenancy.

5. Attach every required disclosure

Lead-based paint, Code violations, Utility charges and pre-existing damage, Non-standard rental provisions, Domestic abuse rights.

6. Return the deposit on time

21 days. Statutory cite: Wis. Stat. § 704.28.

Wisconsin guide FAQs

What order should a Wisconsin landlord follow before signing a lease?
Confirm the deposit cap, set a compliant late fee, plan entry-notice language, set the correct termination notice, attach every required disclosure, and confirm the deposit-return timeline — in that order.
Where can I find the full list of Wisconsin required disclosures?
See the full disclosure list on the Wisconsin state page, or browse disclosure requirements by topic across all states.

Related Wisconsin resources